Illinois Living Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney for Health Care: What You Need to Know

An Illinois power of attorney for health care and declaration (living will) can keep important decisions in the hands of those you trust.

Why do you need a living will and durable power of attorney for health care in Illinois?

If you become unable to direct your own medical care because of illness, an accident, or advanced age, the right legal documents are your lifeline. When you don't write down your wishes about the kinds of medical treatment you want and name someone you trust to oversee your care, these important matters can be placed in the hands of estranged family members, doctors, or sometimes even judges, who may know very little about what you would prefer.

What are health care forms called in Illinois?

There are two basic kinds of health care documents that everyone should make. First, you'll need a document naming a trusted person to direct your health care if you are unable to do so yourself. In Illinois, this form is called a durable power of attorney for health care.

Second, you can create a document setting out the types of medical treatment you would or would not like to receive in certain situations. This document is often known as a living will. Illinois calls this form a declaration.

If you wish to both name a representative and leave treatment instructions, Illinois includes all of your wishes in a single form called durable power of attorney for health care.

Who makes health care decisions for me in Illinois?

In Illinois, the person you name to make decisions for you is called your agent. Most people name a spouse, partner, relative, or close friend as their agent. Under Illinois law, your agent may not be:

your health care provider, or

your attending physician.

What else do I need to know about choosing an agent in Illinois?

When choosing your agent, the most crucial criteria are trustworthiness and dependability. You might also want to choose someone you think will be good at asserting your health care wishes if others argue against them -- that is, someone who is persistent or calm under pressure.

While you need not name someone who lives in Illinois, the person you name should at least be willing and able to travel to your bedside if necessary.

Do I need a lawyer to make health care documents in Illinois?

You usually don't need a lawyer to prepare documents directing your health care. In fact, state governments have designed these forms for people to complete on their own by filling in the blanks. You can find the health care forms you need for Illinois in Nolo's Quicken WillMaker Plus software. The software includes detailed instructions for completing your documents and meets all Illinois legal requirements.